"1997 nissan altima XE white with dark gray fabric interior . As my first car it was very reliable coming from Nevada to California twice, and is most interesting car I ve come across in a while.
PROS
Even with Emission problems/Check engine light on the car will be reliable for the basic A to B commute.
GAS SAVER!!! $30 fills the tank
There are lots and lots of info. online specifically for the 1997 nissan altima for things like common problems and solutions, maintenance and repair and a plethora of parts new and used and great mechanics that wont break put a dent in your finances for fixing these cars. You can save a lot of money by doing a little research.
CONS
Emissions seem to be a common problem for models 93-97 which has to do with passing smog checks and is needed for DMV registration.
This car is unfortunately on the list of commonly stolen cars and my car was randomly stolen but recovered with no serious damage or broken windows. How did the thieves get in the car and steal it? I have no earthly idea. If you own one or plan to make sure you GET Comp insuranace coverage. People try to tell other people not to get it and its a waste but look at what happened to me?...And I did not have Comp coverage. You live and learn."

Solid Compact

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating

8/10

Value

8/10

Reliability

9/10

Quality

8/10

Performance

8/10

Styling

8/10

Comfort

9/10

Pros: "Fun to drive. Reliable. Good looks."

Cons: "Costly to maintain"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"The Altima has been very costly for me to maintain as living in the desert tends to dry out bushings, hoses, cv boots, and motor mounts. Also, electrical components, alternator, distributor and starter will fail at high mileage. Tip: Go aftermarket anywhere else, but buy factory new or refurbished for electrical components. A/C going still strong. Overall, this car has been very reliable for city driving it's fun to drive, handles effectively, with fair to good MPG."

"Got this car 11 years ago with only 26,000 miles and it now has over 160,000. Price from a private party was $7,000. It has a moon-roof and spoiler and was very stylish in the day. Only problem was I replaced the alternator 2x. Overall a great car that got worn down over the years and now it is time to move on. Nissan Altima's Rule!"

"Bought this 1997 Altima used with about 55,000 miles on it. We've been driving it for about 11 years now & that's a first for me! I am a driver as you can tell by the miles most cars only last me a year or two before they start falling apart. I don't mind maintenance costs on a good car but nickle and dime costs can make you crazy! We have never had this problem with this car! Last time we took it in for scheduled maintenance we thanked our mechanic for keeping it going as we had just passed the 200,000 mile mark. He smiled and said thanks! and you'll probably get another 100,000 out of her if we just keep doing what we're doing! Needless to say we love it!...and when the time does come to retire this car you can bet we'll be looking at whatever Nissan has to offer first!"

"Bought this 1997 Altima used with about 55,000 miles on it. We've been driving it for about 11 years now & that's a first for me! I am a driver as you can tell by the miles most cars only last me a year or two before they start falling apart. I don't mind maintenance costs on a good car but nickle and dime costs can make you crazy! We have never had this problem with this car! Last time we took it in for scheduled maintenance we thanked our mechanic for keeping it going as we had just passed the 200,000 mile mark. He smiled and said thanks! and you'll probably get another 100,000 out of her if we just keep doing what we're doing! Needless to say we love it!...and when the time does come to retire this car you can bet we'll be looking at whatever Nissan has to offer first!"